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Ask HR: We are overworked and fatigued. How can we make our voices heard?
What you need to know:
- Whereas a new structure means increased workload, when employers fit old workload to a smaller structure without proper rationalisation, overwork and burnout catches up very fast and can wipe off all gains if not addressed timely.
- The second challenge arises from work culture. Team dynamics play an important role in how work gets done, distributed, supported, assessed, supervised and rewarded.
- Since this is affecting you as a group, discuss objectively, identify the enablers of your challenges and share this with your management
Last year my company reviewed its organisation structure to respond to the effects of Covid season. A downsizing of employees followed soon after and many were sent home. Now, one year later, our workload has increased and despite asking for new employees, we have had to take more work with little rest. Many of us have not taken leave as it keeps being deferred. While we are excited that the business has improved, we are experiencing fatigue and burnout and our leaders seem unconcerned. How can we make our voices heard before things get worse?
Although you are not at a very good place right now, I am glad you are not sitting and waiting for the worst to happen, but you are seeking help. The desire to accomplish goals especially at a time when unemployment rates are high can lead to devastating health outcomes. Your challenging situation could be stemming from deeper systemic issues and may need a deeper analysis. I will highlight just three that could be quick wins.
